Local News

Fatal Car-Train Collision

A weekend car-train collision left an Alvin man dead. 52-year-old Larry Watson was identified as the victim, according to Vermilion County Sheriff's Police.

Deputies reported Watson was driving along 2950 North Road near Alvin just before 1 am Saturday when he apparently pulled into the path of a CSX freight train. There were no injuries to members of the train crew.

Hazardous travel due to ice, sleet

Hazardous driving conditions remain in place this (Tuesday) morning. Several accidents have closed roads and slowed traffic due to the freezing rain and sleet that's blanketed roads in central-Illinois.

Illinois State Police reported earlier Route 45 was at a stand-still due to an accident. I-57 at Chebanse was closed after a semi jack-knifed in the northbound lanes. Several ambulances were dispatched.

Most all area roads were covered in ice early today. The NWS had a Winter Weather Advisory The advisory is in place until Noon for Ford and Iroquois counties and Benton and newton counties in Indiana.

The Advisory was issued due to periods of freezing rain, sleet or snow causing travel difficulties. Sidewalks too are extremely slick from the light coating of ice.Several school districts and service agencies cancelled today.

ILLINOIS STATE POLICE DISTRICT 21 WINTER WEATHER TRAVEL ADVISORY

Motorists Urged to Reduce Speeds & Slow Down

Ashkum, IL- Illinois State Police District 21 covering Kankakee, Iroquois and Ford Counties are reminding drivers to take precautions as they travel.

The Illinois State Police are advising motorist to be cautious while traveling this morning. Interstate 57 currently covered in ice throughout Kankakee, Iroquois and Ford Counties. Secondary roads are also icy. District 21 is reporting several slide offs due to the hazardous road conditions. District 21 is currently handling a serious crash on Interstate 57 northbound at milepost 304. Interstate 57 northbound from milepost 296-304 is currently blocked, motorist are urged to find an alternate route.

Motorists are advised to be cautious while driving near and around snow plows. Motorist should also be cautious, slow down, and move over for emergency vehicles assisting motorists on the roadways.

The Illinois State Police are asking drivers to monitor changing weather conditions, limit their travels, and be prepared to allow plenty of time to reach your destination. Drivers are also encouraged to put extra water, food, and warm clothing their vehicle. Please contact your nearest police department if you vehicle becomes disabled or involved in a crash.

SAMPLE BALLOTS NOW AVAILABLE in Iroquois County

Iroquois County Clerk Lisa Fancher has announced that the publication of the full ballot, as well as sample ballots for the April 9th Consolidated Election are now available on the county's website at www.co.iroquois.il.us. You may also call the clerk's office at: 815-432-6960 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and request a sample ballot which can be mailed or emailed to you.